Hospital-based orthodontic services at several locations, including Stockton and Hartlepool, are to end under the proposals, which will see the creation of a new orthodontic centre in South Tees.

The plans, which will see specialist treatment delivered in Middlesbrough and Northallerton, have been criticised by Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham but a report backs the changes.

The Tees Valley Health Scrutiny Joint Committee said every alternative had been considered.

However, Mr Cunningham said he remained hopeful some services may be retained as the report said local development of orthodontist services should be pursued. The committee also called for health bosses to actively consider the commissioning of additional specialist orthodontic practitioner capacity, to ensure that as many people as possible get treatment close to home.

Mr Cunningham said: “I’m disappointed the scrutiny committee accept that all services north of the Tees are abandoned.

“I do however welcome the statement that the committee expects the trust to continue its efforts to recruit - and I would hope that members would return to the issue before the last service north of the Tees is closed down in autumn 2012.”

South Tees NHS Foundation Trust has said most routine treatment can be done in the community.

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